Colombian Lesserblack Tarantula
Xenesthis immanis
The Xenesthis immanis, known as 'Colombian Lesserblack Tarantula'. A magnificent and gigantic creature (7.1-8.7 inches legspan), considered the Holy Grail of South American terrestrials for its psychedelic coloration. The abdomen and legs are deep black, but the carapace explodes in a dazzling and iridescent purple, magenta or metallic 'starburst' pink. Nervous, voracious and fast growing, it requires huge tropical terrariums. Curiously known in nature for its rare mutualism with Microhylidae frogs, which protect its eggs from ants in exchange for shelter.
Ambiente
Terrestre
Umidade
70 - 85 %
Temperatura diurna
23 - 27 °C
Temperatura noturna
21 - 24 °C
Descrição da espécie
Geographic Origin and Habitat: The World Spider Catalog records Colombia and Venezuela as the distribution of Xenesthis immanis. This recovery adds no habitat characterization beyond that verified distribution.
Taxonomy and Genetics: The World Spider Catalog lists Xenesthis immanis (Ausserer, 1875) as an accepted species in the genus Xenesthis, family Theraphosidae.
Behaviour and Habits: This recovery makes no behavioural claim.
Morphology and Sexual Dimorphism: This recovery adds no morphological or sexual-dimorphism claim.
Cuidado, criação e companheiros de tanque
Terrarium Setup: Guidance about terrarium setup for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Lighting and Heating: Guidance about lighting and heating for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Humidity and Hydration: Guidance about humidity and hydration for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Feeding and Supplementation: Guidance about feeding and supplementation for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Compatibility and Coexistence: Guidance about compatibility and coexistence for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Health and Common Diseases: Guidance about health and common diseases for Xenesthis immanis must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Origem e distribuição geográfica
Esta espécie é originária de: Sud America (Foreste umide e tropicali di Colombia e Venezuela).
Origem
Extra-Amazônica América do Sul
Perfil de invertebrados terrestres
- Dieta
- Carnivore
- The diet of Xenesthis immanis primarily consists of appropriately sized live insects, such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. In the wild, they are opportunistic ambush predators that will take down any prey they can overpower. Feeding should occur once or twice a week depending on the size and age of the individual. It is important to remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent stress or injury to the tarantula. Fresh water must also be available at all times in a shallow dish.
- Tamanho adulto
- 22 cm
- Estilo de vida/Microhabitat
- Terrestrial
- The lifestyle of Xenesthis immanis revolves around creating and maintaining a suitable retreat, whether that be a deep burrow or an intricate web structure. Terrestrial species will spend significant time digging and moving substrate to form a comfortable living space. Arboreal types, on the other hand, will construct silken tubes hidden among foliage or bark. They lead highly solitary lives and will generally not tolerate the presence of other individuals in their territory outside of mating. A well-designed enclosure that mimics their specific natural habitat is essential for their overall well-being.
- Ciclo de atividades
- Nocturnal
- The activity pattern of Xenesthis immanis is predominantly nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. As dusk approaches, they typically emerge from their retreats to actively forage for food or wait in ambush. During the daylight hours, they prefer to remain hidden in dark, secure hiding spots to avoid predators and extreme temperatures. Maintaining a proper day-night light cycle in the enclosure helps regulate their natural circadian rhythms. Observing them under a dim red light at night can provide fascinating insights into their natural habits.
- Socialidade
- Solitary
- This species is strictly solitary and highly cannibalistic. They must be housed individually in separate, secure enclosures. They view any other tarantula as a threat or a meal. In the wild, they have a unique commensal relationship with a specific microhylid frog, but this is never replicated in captivity.
- Reprodução
- Oviparous
- Reproduction in Xenesthis immanis typically involves a delicate courtship process where the male drums on the ground to signal his presence to the female. Once the female accepts, the male carefully approaches to transfer sperm using his pedipalps. After a successful mating, the female will construct an egg sac containing anywhere from fifty to several hundred eggs, depending on the species size. Incubation lasts for several weeks, during which the female fiercely guards the sac. Eventually, the spiderlings emerge and will soon disperse to begin their solitary lives.
- Venenoso
- Yes
- Tolerância de tratamento
- Expert only
- Handling Xenesthis immanis should generally be kept to an absolute minimum to avoid causing unnecessary stress to the animal. Tarantulas are fragile creatures that can suffer fatal injuries from even a short fall. If manipulation is required for enclosure maintenance or rehousing, using a catch cup or the soft paintbrush method is highly recommended. Direct handling carries the risk of getting bitten or exposed to irritating urticating hairs. Prioritizing observation over interaction ensures the safety of both the keeper and the spider.
- Brumação
- Não obrigatório
- True brumation is not typically observed in Xenesthis immanis, but they may experience a period of reduced activity during cooler winter months. During this time, they might retreat deeper into their burrows and significantly decrease their food intake. It is important to avoid overfeeding and to carefully monitor the temperature and humidity levels to ensure they remain within safe parameters. Keepers should refrain from disturbing the spider to allow it to rest naturally. Normal activity and appetite will usually resume once ambient temperatures begin to rise again in the spring.
- Muda
- Regular
- The molting process is a critical and vulnerable time for Xenesthis immanis as it allows them to grow and regenerate lost appendages. Prior to a molt, the tarantula will often refuse food, become lethargic, and develop a dark patch on its abdomen. When the time comes, they will construct a molting mat of silk and flip onto their backs to begin extracting themselves from their old exoskeleton. Under no circumstances should they be disturbed or fed during this exhausting process. After molting, they need several days to weeks to fully harden their new fangs and body before they can eat again.
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